Lanao del Norte, Philippines – November 2, 2024
The 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company of Lanao del Norte (2nd PMFC-LDN) successfully seized smuggled cigarettes during a checkpoint operation in Purok 4, Bansarvil-1, Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte, on Saturday. This accomplishment marks a significant step in local authorities’ ongoing efforts to combat smuggling and other illegal activities in the region.
The operation began when a silver KIA SUV, flagged down at a routine checkpoint, suddenly sped away, prompting officers to pursue the vehicle. As the chase continued, law enforcement received a tip about an abandoned vehicle that matched the description of the fleeing SUV. Officers soon located the abandoned SUV at Purok 4, confirming it was the same one that had evaded the checkpoint. The driver of the vehicle, who fled the scene, has not yet been identified.
Barangay officials were called in to witness the inspection of the vehicle. Inside, authorities discovered several boxes of smuggled cigarettes. The confiscated items included three boxes of White New Far cigarettes, seven boxes of Red New Far cigarettes, and nine boxes of White Fort cigarettes, with a combined estimated market value of Php 760,000.
PBGEN Jaysen C. De Guzman, Acting Regional Director of Police Regional Office 10 (PRO10), praised the efforts of the 2nd PMFC-LDN team, highlighting the dedication of the unit in upholding law and order. “We will not let up in our efforts to combat illegal activities in our communities. We assure the public that we will not tolerate any illegal activities, and we will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of our region,” De Guzman stated.
PRO10 also encouraged the public to support the government’s initiatives against criminal activities, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in maintaining peace and security across the region.
The authorities are continuing their investigation to identify the driver and determine the source of the smuggled goods.
